Bringing home a cuddly, playful puppy is an exciting time, but it also comes with the responsibility of house training (aka potty training.) This crucial phase lays the foundation for a harmonious - and hygienic - life with your fur-end. While dedication and consistency are key, a dog walker can be your secret weapon in your and your pup's house training journey. Let's discuss Puppy House Training: How a Dog Walker Can Help!
Puppy House Training: Setting the Stage for Success
Setting the Stage for Success: Puppy-proofing
Consider starting your house training journey by confining your pup to a designated area, like a crate, a playpen, or a puppy-proofed room. Place your pup in his crate or restricted area when you can't directly supervise him or her. Remove anything they might chew on or pee/poop on, including electrical cords, throw rugs, down-filled pillows, etc.
Setting the Stage for Success: Routines
Create a routine by establishing regular feeding times. Then, take your pup out frequently, ideally every 1-2 hours, especially after meals, playtime, and waking up. Consistency is key to teaching your pup that he or she should only eliminate outdoors.
Choose a specific location outside where you want your pup to eliminate. Take him to this spot each time you bring him out, using a consistent potty cue like "go potty" or "do your business." If you have a yard, stay with your puppy until he does his business so that you can be sure that he doesn't get distracted. You want to see that he peed or pooped during his outing or you may end up with a mess inside.
If you will be walking your pup on a leash when it's time to go potty, leave her collar, harness, and leashes in the same spot so she knows what to expect when it's time to go out. Avoid retractable leashes, even during potty training. And, focus while walking so you can pick up after her. Remember, pet waste that isn't picked up goes into our waterways and can contaminate drinking water.
Setting the Stage for Success: rewards
When your pup eliminates in the appropriate spot, shower her with praise and low-level treats like a piece of kibble or training treat! This positive association makes her more likely to repeat the desired behavior. You don't, however, want to use something too enticing as a reward because your dog may get wise and start squatting just for a treat, even if they don't need to go potty.
Per The Humane Society of the United States, "Before rewarding, be sure they’re finished. Puppies are easily distracted and if you praise too soon, they may forget to finish until they’re back in the house."
Setting the Stage for Success: cleaning supplies
Remember, accidents happen! Don't punish your pup for accidents. If you catch them eliminating in the wrong spot, simply interrupt them and take them outside to a pee-and-poop-appropriate spot. Clean up accidents thoroughly with an enzyme cleaner to remove any lingering odors that might entice them to repeat the mistake indoors.
We think Sprinkle & Sweep is a great product that makes clean-up a lot less messy! It's often worth investing in a bag during the potty training process.
Puppy House Training: Leveraging a Dog Walker's help
House training a puppy can be time-consuming, especially for busy individuals and families. This is where a reliable dog walker comes in handy, providing much-needed support.
Dog walkers ensure your pup has regular opportunities to eliminate outdoors, adhering to your established schedule, even when you're at work. Professional dog walkers also understand the importance of positive reinforcement during potty training. We will praise and reward your pup for eliminating in the right spot, further solidifying the desired behavior.
Dog walkers also provide structured walks that help your pup burn off energy and develop healthy elimination habits. Knowing your pup is getting the potty breaks they need while you're away gives you peace of mind and allows you to focus on work or errands. You can also count on us to clean up any accidents we find and communicate any concerns we encounter during your puppy's visits.
Puppy House Training: Choosing the Right Dog Walker
Look for a professional, insured, and reputable dog walker who understands puppy development and house training techniques. The ideal dog walker for puppy-training puppies uses positive reinforcement and is familiar with your dog's age-specific needs.
At House of Paws, our team of dedicated professionals is genuinely paw-sionate about animals. We’re here to provide top-notch pet care services and pride ourselves on going that extra mile to ensure pets' comfort and happiness. Rest assured, when working with House of Paws, your potty-training pup is in excellent hands.
Puppy House Training: working with your dog walker
Communicate openly with your dog walker. Share your house training routine, potty cues, and any specific needs your pup might have. Discuss your expectations and ask for updates on your pup's progress. Working together with your pet care provider ensures a team effort and a positive result for you and your pup.
House training a puppy requires dedication, but with consistency, positive reinforcement, and the helping hand of a dog walker, you can set your furry friend up for success. Remember, a well-trained pup leads to a cleaner, happier home for everyone!
To learn more about our dog walking, dog adventure, and pet sitting services, contact us at
(314) 690-5154 or email Houseofpawspetcarellc@gmail.com. If you're ready to book services in one of our service areas submit a new client form to begin our registration process.
House of Paws proudly serves Eureka, Wildwood, Ballwin, Manchester, Maryland Heights, Des Peres, Fenton, Chesterfield, Valley Park, Ladue, Creve Couer, Town & Country, Kirkwood, Sunset Hills, Clayton, Webster Groves, Maplewood, The Hill, South City & Affton.
We look forward to caring for your paws-itively perfect puppies(s)!